The Elven King looks at the reports that were placed before him. It is time. Time for the pilgrimage to begin. “Do we have any qualified summoners ready to go?” He asks his counsel.

“There is one in the Arabitylar family. A young woman, she is a mage as well.” The counsel answers.

“Perfect, send a message to the family and also to the human King. I know one of his sons is a mage. He will make a good protector. I cannot believe it already has been a thousand years. We will spread the word to the other nations later. I don’t want our summoner to be alone with the other guardians.” The King sighs. “I only wish there was a different way of doing this.”

~~~~~~

Caladhiel finishes up on the young patient. “Next time us some caution while exploring. It could have been a lot worse than a broken leg.”

“Cala, Cala…” A young girl’s shout is heard. Caladhiel knows immediately who it is. Only one person calls her that. The curtain is pulled open. “Atara nyare amin utu- lle. ta naa horme.*” The young girl pants and switches to common. “There is a royal summons for you.”

Caladhiel gasps, “A royal summon for me? I will be right there.” She looks at the doctor for his dismissal and takes off her labcoat. “Thank you for fetching me Kujara, shall we race home?” The grin on Kujara’s face is wide as she takes off to the house. Caladhiel waits for a few moments to give her sister a head start. She breaks into a sprint.

She lets Kujara touch the door first as she smooths her outfit. Not only is her family a mage family. It is a summoner one as well. It is rare to have a summoner who is both. They had royal visits before but mostly they deal with her parents not with her. She makes sure she is presentable before walking in.

A man in royal robes is sitting by the fireplace enjoying tea with her parents. They all look up as Caladhiel enters the room. “Milday, it is good to see you. I am glad you came quickly. I have a letter here from the king. He wants you to get ready for you pilgrimage. Yours will not be the normal one though. He needs you for a special one. With your parents’ permission of course.” He looks over at the couple seated together.

“But of course, we pledge our services for His Majesty, and that of our daughter.” The Father states.

“Don’t worry about packing too much. His Majesty will provide you with the necessities.” The man states. “However if there is anything personal you need, I will help you pack that. I recommend packing lightly, this is going to be a long trip. Primarily on foot as well.”

Caladhiel bows and goes to her room. She packs her flute, her toiletries, and her crossbow. She cannot help, but be a little nervous. She remember the bedtime stories of pilgrimages that all elves have heard. She wonders who her protectors will be.

*Mother told me to find you. It is urgent.

**********

Meanwhile, have the world away a message is received by the human royalty. They give it to King Frederick immediately upon arrival. He nods at his messenger. “So it begins. Get the Royal carriage set up with plenty of provisions. My son is going to the Elven Castle. Oh and someone fetch Kelani for me as well.”

Kelani is at the mage practice grounds. He is working on picking up his instructor. It is not going so well. “I know you can do this Prince, you have been practicing so hard. Just a little bit higher. I can almost reach the apple.”

“It would have been simpler to bring the apple to you.” Kelani retorts as beads of sweat glisten on his forehead. The door burst open and a guard enters. Kelani loses his concentration as he looks at the guard. The instructor falls on her butt.

“This better be important, can’t you see I am in the middle of a lesson.” The instructor glares at the guard.

“Sir, the King told me to come get you. It is important.” The guard bows.

Kelani shrugs at the instructor. “What can I say, I am a popular one today.” He turns to leave the room but pauses at the door. Only using his mind, he takes the apple from the branch and sets it in the instructor’s hands. “Enjoy.”

Kelani rushes back to the castle, making a stop at his room to dress appropriately. He is told that his father is waiting in the study. “Father, you wanted to see me?”

“Good, good you are here. I got a message from the Elven nation. They have requested you to be a protector for their summoner. I am readying a carriage and your bags as well. You will be protected on your trip to pick up the Summoner, and to bring her back here. I am so proud that you were selected for this pilgrimage. Now go quickly and may your travels be safe.” King Frederick hugs his son.

Kelani is excited, finally something to do. He loves being a Prince, but since he is not heir to the throne, life is a little boring. He goes to his room and makes sure the servants are packing the right things.

Majet smiles sleepily, but politely nods her greeting to the Summoner as she asks how she slept. She mentions how quiet the night was and Majet wonders what it must be like to never sleep. Surely, they have more time to accomplish things, but...goodness. Never be able to shut your brain off? Majet isn't so sure that she'd really like that. Then again, the life of an Elf is far more pleasant than that of a Spriggan, so what would they ever need a break or an escape from?o

"I slept well. I'm used to sleeping out here like this," Majet replies, "Yet, it is not usually this quiet. Then again, Syren and I are usually in troll territory and those beasts love to attack at night."

Their journey begins as they head towards the first temple and Majet wonders what it will be like. She's the lead, which isn't new, as Syren usually just alerts her whenever she hears something up ahead. The Drow always detects things before she does--or at least, she almost always does. There's been an occasion or two when she detected something first, but those moments are always to be rare.

Syren is simply walking behind her quietly, as she always does. This is just the normal for her, of course, but today it just seems more unsettling than usual. She reads while they walk, not watching where she is going. Instead, Darrin plays as her eyes, guiding her closely from ahead of her with his hands behind him to keep her steady.

Occasionally, he looks back and warns her of an unsteady spot of terrain or a rock of some kind in their path. The woman never hesitates to respond in time and to look up from her book to avoid the issue before returning to the pages once more. This mustn't be the first time that Syren didn't look where she was going, but it was the first that Majet had ever witnessed it.

Did she and Darrin truly know each other so well? If that is the case, then how in the world does he have the Queen's mark upon his skin? If he belongs to the Queen, then he would have little to know access to Syren directly. Additionally, he was never present on their scouts and Majet had never seen him before this journey. Odd.

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“From what I have been told, the trolls are quite tenacious in their battles. Is that correct?” Caladhiel asks. She’s been so sheltered compared to the others regarding the races. This is the first time she has really been out of Zordlon.

Kelani stays by Caladhiel as the others scouted ahead. He kept an eye on the others, but knows they make better scouts. Even Caladhiel would be a better scout than he. They are lucky though these roads are very heavily patrolled. Knowing his father, even more so now that he is traveling on it. “I have always wondered Lady Caladhiel, since elves don’t sleep how do you relax?”

“We do relax, it is not just by sleeping. I have learned plenty of songs and we tell our stories. Our families are really close as well. Did you know one of my ancestors was on the same journey as we are now many years ago? She is gone now of course. She did not talk about her journey at all.” Caladhiel sighs.

It was then a patrol group passes them. “The roads are pretty quiet, Milord. We will make sure the rest of your trip to the temple is safe as well.”“Thank you sirs, we appreciate all your hard work.” Kelani nods to them as they travel forward. “That sounds relaxing at least. You play your pan flute quite well.”They travel on for a few hours some in silence, some in small talk. Finally they can see the spires of the temple. “Ladies and Gentleman, welcome to our first temple of the guardians.”

They are greeted by a monk in colorful robes upon their arrival. “Welcome Summoner and her protectors to the Temple of Terron. I am Father Caprio, please follow me to your quarters while you are here. I know you must be hungry as well. We have plenty of food for you.”The building is beautiful. It is so colorful and airy like the tropical nation. She is not use to everything being so open. Although in Zordlon, it is too cold to have open structures like this. It is very ornate as well. “Thank your Father, for your kindness. The temple here is very beautiful.” Caladhiel cannot help but look around.

Father Caprio leads them in. “We will make sure you are properly attired Lady Summoner for the duration of your visit.” A group of ladies in simpler robes approach them. “Take Summoner Caladhiel to her room and get her dressed. I will take the others to theirs.”

He take them down the hall. “The ladies will have one room and the gentlemen will have another. The Summoner has her own quarters.” He points out the doors. “When you are settled, please meet up in the main quarters and we will take everyone on a tour together. Majesty, I know you have been here before, so you know how to get there.”Caladhiel looks back at the others as the attendants pull her away. They bring her to an ornate room that has a huge bed in the middle. There is also a desk with books on it. On the bed is a multicolored kimono just waiting for her.

“We will help you get dressed, then you can meet up for the others.” “We hope you like it. We know how elves like colorful things.”“We will do your hair perfect as wellCaladhiel could be more excited. A real chance to bathe and put on some really pretty clothes. She goes right to the bathing room. After she is done the ladies put her in the kimono. They put her hair up and adorn it with jewelry as well as her neck. She has never felt so pretty before.

As they are led to their rooms, Darrin is happy to have room shared with only one other. This, for him, is a rarity, and he'd never have such a luxury at home. Even more rare is how nice and well lit everything is. Being above the Underdark for so long almost makes him long for another life. However, he's also grateful for the one that he has.

As the Queen's very own slave, he has far more luxuries in life than most male Drow, so he is actually pretty lucky. He had watched the others go into their own rooms, as well. Majet looked happy to be inside and of course, his mistress seems entirely indifferent.

However, the indifference was very clear to him. He knows his mistress well and he is sure that she is unhappy to be here--even more so, now that the Summoner is being treated like a Queen and as though she has a higher status. Regardless of the fact that it is tradition and ritual, she will always consider herself superior to all Elves.

Darrin finds clothing waiting for him--clean clothes and rather nice ones, too. However, he doesn't put them on. After a quick wash, he places on his own clothes, instead--but a clean set. Then, he closes up his pack and wonders if the mistress will want him to dine with the others. After all, it is definitely not tradition to have a slave at the table.

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Kelani is thankful for sleeping indoors. He already knew about accommodations here, but this is the first time he has seen them first hand. He is thankful for the privacy from the ladies and for the bathing facilities as well. He too finds clothing waiting for him and decides to wear them.

After bathing, he puts on the simple clothes, the material rougher than he usually wears. He does not want to insult the temples though. He is not her as a Prince, but a protector. He waits until Darrin is ready. “Shall we check on the ladies? I know my way around here, so I can bring you to the dining area.”Caladhiel is waiting in the main hall for the others. She was brought here after getting dressed. This is amazing! She wonders if it will be the same in all temples. She can get used to this. Kelani waits out in the hall for the ladies. “I hope your accommodations are as lovely as ours are. Then again anything beats sleeping on the ground. I will be happy to escort you to the dining room and a quick tour while we go.”

He takes them to the main room where Caladhiel is waiting. He gets an appreciative look on his face. “Wow Lady Caladhiel, you are beautiful.”

Darrin is escorted to where the Summoner is by Prince Kelani, and of course, they are quick to find both Syren and Majet, neither of which show any expressions of any kind. Dressed in simple clothing, both ladies seem rather comfortable in their newfound cleanliness and Majet seems much more relaxed. Syren never looks or seems relaxed.

Darrin greets his Mistress with a deep bow and Syren doesn't even give him a chance to do or say anything. Instead, she walks right up to him and holds out a sealed scroll. Looking up at the scroll, he takes it from her hand curiously, seeing that it is sealed with her own wax family emblem.

"You will eat a small meal and then rest up in your room for the rest of this day. After tomorrow's morn comes, you will leave and head straight home. Deliver this scroll to the Queen." Syren command, "It will be up to her, that we should meet again."

Darrin had expected this, certainly, but he really had truly wished to stay a little longer with the group before making his exit. However, Syren always made up her mind on decisions rather quickly. She wasn't one to sit and think on any one situation for too long--she liked to act. With a nod of his head, he takes his exit so as to pack away the scroll with the rest of his belongings.

After Darrin's exit, Majet looks up at Syren with intrigue. So Darrin is here to simply provide information for the Queen? A messenger? If he should return, it will take him much longer to catch up with their journeys...especially after some more distance is gained between them and the Underdark.

Looking about awkwardly, Majet's right hand moves up to her necklace subconsciously and she plays with it. She's never really been in a place like this. They don't have nice sorts like this at home--but still, it does not compare to the Queen's royalties in the Underdark. Having only seen it once, the grandeur of the place has still burned into her mind from awe.

Caladhiel thanks Majet for her compliment. She is saddened though that Darrin will be leaving. The nights will be long without him. She does not trust Syrendross and now she no one to ask questions about the dark elves. “Thank you all. Well I hope the food here is as good as the clothing.”Kelani is only slightly surprised that Syrendross is sending Darrin away. The journey is only supposed to be them in the first place. Kelani offers an arm to Caladhiel and Majet. “Allow me to escort you guys to the dining hall. I know we are all hungry.

The food is set up in a buffet style setting there is a lot of fruits and seafood, being close to the ocean. There are some other people filling their plates already. “Oh welcome, I see you guys found your clothing. Lady Summoner, you look lovely. I hope you guys are hungry. After eating, you will be free to settle in. We will be having our services at sunset, if you wish to join us.“Thank you Father, I cannot speak for the others, but I will be attending.” Kelani releases the ladies. He notices that Caladhiel is swarmed by the other people. He expected that as well. Their group is one that rarely happens. Caladhiel is gracious to all the people who ask her questions. She answers their questions as best as she can. She tries deflect some of the attention to the others. She is only one member of the group. They eventually do disperse and she finds Kelani. “Wow is it going to be like this at all the temples?” Kelani laughs. “This is the temple in the human lands. It is not often that we get visitors from the Elves. Look now they are talking to Majet as well. Plus, we are an unusual Summoner party. Most of the time they are not so diverse. Shall we get some food while we can?”

The two ladies dine quietly, both stoic as they deal with the humans flittering about with as much patience as they are able. Majet is swarmed by questions, eventually, to which she answers some quietly. However, most are smart enough to avoid Syren...lucky Syren.

Syren finishes her meal and quickly then takes her leave, heading off to her room to rest. She asks only when the ritual will begin so that she will know when to be ready there. Other than that, she says nothing. Majet isn't surprised.

However, Majet takes her time with her meal, and although she does little talking with those around her, she does watch very carefully. She wants to learn more of these humans. The more she knows, the better equipped she will be against them in the future.

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Click here to get started on GtR!Many thanks to Skylar for making my sig/avy set!

“The ritual will not take place until tomorrow at sunrise. The summoner and her protectors will have to be at upmost condition. So please all of you take the time to relax and enjoy the temple.” Father Caprio is not bothered by the Drow’s personality. He knows it is just one of their mysterious qualities.Caladhiel is happy at Syrendross’ sudden departure. The less time they spend together the better. It is obvious they do not like one another, so it is better for the team that they are not together. Why the guardians would insist on opposing races working together is beyond her.

She is happy to see that Majet is being treated well. The others are so curious about her. She wishes that it was the two of them that shared a room together. She seems really nice without Syrendross breathing down her neck. Maybe she will help her find out more about the elusive Drows.Kelani wonders what the ritual consists of. He knows that a journey like this does not happen. Yes, there have been summoners and their protectors, but not a group so diverse. He suspects that the Elves and Drows may know more due to their long lifespans. However, that does not mean that Caladhiel and Syrendross have that knowledge. Caladhiel seems to be a younger elf and not royalty. Higher class definitely, so she may not be privy to information.

Syrendross may know the most, but he doubts she will disclose all her secrets. He is glad she is being well behaved towards Caladhiel so far. He wonders what is in the scroll she gave to Darrin and why she is sending him away so quickly. He knows better than to get relaxed with this group.

He smiles when he looks at Majet. He is so curious about her. He has only dealt with Spriggans professionally, and as bystander at that. She seems to have a nice personality, but is easily intimidated by Syrendross. He hopes to get to know her better as well.

The meal ends and the church staff begins to clean up. “Our libraries are open to all and at all hours. We know that the Elves and Drow do not sleep. If you do venture outside, you should be safe while on the temple grounds. We do have our own guards. Not that we have too many issues, but just in case.” Father Caprio stands. “The evening service will begin in about a half hour. Everyone is invited to attend.”Caladhiel is grateful when the crowd disperses. “I am going to the service. Are either of you going to attend as well?”

Majet looks up as the Summoner speaks to her, asking if she'll attend the service. To be honest, Majet isn't entirely sure what the service is, but it sounds far more appealing than going back to her room and sitting in silence with Syren, so...why not?

"Yes." Majet replies, "Though if it takes too long, I may have to leave early. Today is a Spriggan Holiday of sorts and I have a ritual that I will have to perform later."

She sets her plate down and adjusts her newer clothing before fiddling with her hair between her fingers. Her ashen, grey, and black hair looks dried out, but she's never really cared for it like most women do. Spriggans don't exactly care about their hair care. Usually, she wears her favorite yellow hood, but now that's out of her usual clothes and around other humans with pretty hair, it makes her self conscious.

"What is this service, anyway?" Majet asks, curious.

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Click here to get started on GtR!Many thanks to Skylar for making my sig/avy set!

“I am glad you are going to be joining us. Unless it has changed at all, which I highly doubt, the service is a quick one. Basically thanking the guardians for making it through another day. It won’t take too long.” Kelani tells her. “Oh I didn’t know today was a Spriggan Holiday. You must tell me what holiday it is. I know so little of the Spriggan people. I am sure they won’t mind you leaving early.” Caladhiel sees her playing with her hair. “If you want, I can help you with your hair. I have plenty of experience with my younger sister. Please tell me you will let me do it for you. We have a little time before the service starts. Then you can tell me all about the holiday.” Kelani laughs at the ladies. “Sounds like girl talk. Go on and I will find you for the service. Have fun ladies.” Caladhiel smiles cheerfully. “See now you have to come. Please say you will. We will stop by your room first to get your brush. I have plenty of hair decorations in my room.” She holds out her hand to Majet waiting for her acceptance.

Majet is somewhat surprised at her offer. Well, if the service is short, then she'll be able to do both, so there's no problems there. Great. With an almost shy nod of her head, she takes the summoner's hand and walks with her towards the rooms.

"Do Elves always put things in their hair?" Majet asks, "I mean, we do, but uh...most of ours is like...decorative twigs. That must sound strange to you."

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Click here to get started on GtR!Many thanks to Skylar for making my sig/avy set!

“Elves love pretty things, so we decorate our hair, our bodies, almost anything we can.” Caladhiel explains as they pick up her items first. “I think all girls like to dress up at least a little bit. She studies Majet. “I think the decorated twigs suit you. They must be very pretty. Do you used dried berries to add color? I love seeing the twigs in the mountains with the dried berries on them. The splash of the evergreen against the white of the snow.” Caladhiel covers her mouth. “Listen to me blabber though.”

She opens the door to her room. “This is the room I was given. Now sit down and tell me all about your celebration.” Caladhiel waits for her to sit down as she brings over the decorations. “Your hair is such a pretty color. It will show off anything.” Caladhiel begins brushing Majet’s hair.

Majet is taken aback from the Summoner's kindness. She is already playing with her hair, bringing her into her own resting place and treating her like...a friend. It's both surprising and pleasant. She remembers when she had spent her first night with Syren and their visit had been not only the opposite, but also far more quiet and empty.

This is...a very different attitude. With Syren, they relied upon each other. They fought together, ate together. They shared stories and experiences, slayed demons and creatures together, hunted together...they had done so much and most of it was in silence. Still, that silence had grown comfortable and peacfull. There were no problems.

This is just...so different. So unlike what people are like back at home. Spriggans have little need for such trivialities like dressing up overly well. Exepct for Faer, of course, but he's a different story, so to speak.

"The ritual is..." Majet says, "It is ceremony that we perform every year, to give thanks to mother earth for her trees and for the home that she has given us. More importantly, it is expected of me, since my power is given to me directly from her, rather than from a deity or from a Guardian. I am expected to do much in order to give the proper respects. If you want, you can join me and we can thank her together."

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Click here to get started on GtR!Many thanks to Skylar for making my sig/avy set!

Caladhiel nods emphatically. “Oh please may I?! You may not know it, but the Elves are so isolated from other cultures. Part of that is the mountainous region we call home. Most of it is from our own culture. So just being on this journey is a treat for me. All except for Syrendross, but even she hasn’t been too openly hostile. You look so pretty, and I think you will turn some eyes.” Kelani walks to Caladhiel’s door and knocks on it. “Ladies it is that time. We should head to the chapel for the service.” Caladhiel laughs and winks at Marjet as she opens the door. “I suppose you are here as our escort. May I present to you Lady Marjet, protector of the Summoner. Kelani raises his eyebrow at Caladhiel’s antics. He looks over her shoulder to Majet. “Wow you are beautiful, I am the luckiest man to be your and the Lady Summoner’s escort.” He stands by the door and waits for them to exit.“Now if you have to leave at any time to attend your ceremony, I will go with you.” Caladhiel exits the room. She holds Kelani’s arm as he offers the other to Majet.

The trio walks down to the chapel and take their seats. The chapel is a simple one with lots of stained glass windows. The sun is currently hitting them sending a myriad of colors into the room. The Father walks down the aisle and stands in front of the room. It is a medium sized room typical of the temples. Kelani shows them the order of the services. It is not very long for it is a night service.

With a mild blushing at the Prince's words, she simply bows as they are escorted by him to the service. She has never been to one before, but she is glad that there will be silence from most of those present while they wait for the services to give her time to think.

As the service begins, Majet is amazed at how simplistic the small meeting is. She had expected...something, anything more. Perhaps not all religions are as detailed as hers is. There is nothing wrong with that, though. Majet finds herself wondering more fully just what the summoner's religion is.

Where does a summoner gain her power from? Is it from a deity, or from something like the Faetree, like hers? Does she keep the power for as long as she lives? She suddenly becomes incredibly curious as to what her power looks like. Plus, she has two forms of magic, does she not? How did she obtain multiple gifts?

The chapel is so beautiful with the stained glass. She has never seen such different colored lights, and as the Priest stands at the alter, Majet is captured by his silent demand for attention with wide eyes of wild curiosity as her hands clasp tightly from nervousness.

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Click here to get started on GtR!Many thanks to Skylar for making my sig/avy set!

Caladhiel sits next to Majet and watches her. She sees the curiosity in the young woman’s eyes. Is this her first exposure to their religion? Kelani bends over after being seated and brings up a dogeared book. There is not a lot of them, but he figures this way Majet can follow along a little bit. He opens up the book and hands it to her. “You can follow along at least a little bit. This is a simple nightly service, so it is not as long as the weekly main service.”

The priest opens the service leading the group with a song. He follows that with praise to the guardians for granting them another day. Then he asks for their blessings for a peaceful rest and asks them to watch over them as they slumber. At the end of the service there was another song. After the service they meet with the other priests and priestess. All of them were so thankful to Majet, Kelani, and Caladhiel for their sacrifices. “After we pass the trial, they will bless us for the rest of our journey.” Caladhiel explains to Majet.

Majet is stunned when the music begins. Although she looks at the pages before her, she is still surprised at just how much energy she can feel between all of the singers that are around her. Not all of them can even sing all that...well. Still, it's all so beautiful in a way that she's never before experienced in her life.

She doesn't understand their beliefs or values, their way of life, none of it. However, in this moment, she sees that there are parts and pieces of it that are so beautiful. She never expected to feel such energy from so many strangers through a song and a sermon. After it has ended, her eyes are a little watery. She brushes her cheeks dry as she greets those that come to her to thank her and her companions.

They all seem so...so in awe of them, so grateful to something that they have yet to even do. It's shocking to her. She is so different, yet they barely notice. She attracts the odd looks, for sure, but when they speak, she can tell that their thanks is sincere. She didn't expect it.

When the service is complete, Majet feels...happy. Really happy. The summoner tells her what is to come and she nods her head with understanding. The trial...it will probably begin soon. Probably in the morning. Goodness, things are already closing and she has a ceremony of her own to do, soon.

She is still watching the people, though. The way that they act towards the summoner is different to her than they are to her and the Prince. She is respected so deeply, Majet cannot fathom just how far the depth of their reverence towards her reaches. It's powerful.

"I must get ready for my ceremony," Majet says awkwardly, "I wonder if they have a place I can go where I can still see the sky. Or I can go outside to do it...will you be watching or joining?"

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Click here to get started on GtR!Many thanks to Skylar for making my sig/avy set!

Kelani hears Majet. “You can always go outside to the gardens. You will be able to see the sky from there. It is very beautiful at night. You will have to excuse me, I am going to rest before the trial tomorrow.” Caladhiel’s eyes open wide. “It will be an honor to join you. I don’t know what to do, but I am sure you can help me. I honestly think we were put together on this journey to experience other cultures.” Kelani nods. “Maybe so Lady Summoner, I will be happy to escort both of you to the gardens. I know the temple will keep you safe as I rest. Do you need to make any preparations Majet?”

Majet smiled appreciatively at both Kelani and Caladhiel, suddenly glad that this journey had put them together. She had expected far different treatment, but as time has gone by, things seemed better. And maybe that would change...but, tonight, it wouldn't and that was nice.

"All I need is my staff," Majet says simply, "I'll get it from my room, first, and then we can head to the gardens."

Majet heads to her room immediately, thankful to remember where it is located. To be honest, buildings like these can be so confusing for her. She's used to living outside, not within structured walls. The seem so much more like mazes to her. She enters her room, takes the staff, and then exits swiftly once more. Then, she allows Kelani to guide them to the gardens.

When they reach the gardens, a sudden thought comes to her mind and she looks to them both ask asks, "Do either of you know druid music?"

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Click here to get started on GtR!Many thanks to Skylar for making my sig/avy set!

Kelani shakes his head as he leads the ladies to the gardens. “I am sorry, I have heard druid music before, but I have never played it. Here are the gardens, I will leave you to your ceremony. If you need help back, just ask a guard.” “Have a good night Prince Kelani.” Caladhiel takes Majet’s arm. “I know a lot of music, but most of it is Elvan. I hope you will teach me some Druid music.” They walk into the temple gates. Even before she can see the flowers, she can smell them. “Oh wow do you smell that?”

When the ladies step into the gardens, they will see a nice pond with night blooming water lilies. The pond trickles out into a stream, making the noise of running water. There are a variety of plants. Most are resting, but there are some that are in bloom. There are patches of moon flowers, Casablanca lilies, and other flowers that Caladheil does not know the name of. The fragrance from the flowers are intoxicating though. There are some lanterns, but they are few are far in between. There is some flickering of fireflies.Caladhiel is in awe of the garden. It is nothing like she has ever seen before. In Zordlon, it is too cold for flowers at night. However here it is still warm enough not to wear a jacket. “Isn’t this amazing Majet? Where would you like to perform your ceremony and what can I do to help?”

Majet bids Kelani a good night as they reach the entrance to the gardens. She smells the flowers just as the summoner mentions them and she inhales more deeply with closed eyes to take it in. It's just so beautiful.

Spriggans had gardens, but they aren't flower gardens. Rather, they have spice and herb gardens, as well as food gardens. Flowers were never a particular interest for her species. In fact, even if a flower was known to have any healing or restorative abilities, her kind would first purchase it before growing it themselves. Something that should be changed, in her opinion, but oh, well.

They enter the garden and Majet cannot help but smile, almost from ear to ear. It is stunning, all of it. The pond reflects the moonlight and the stars above just seem so serene with such beautiful blooms beneath their shine. She never knew that there were nighttime flowers--she had assumed all flowers needed only the sun to bloom.

Walking about, she observes the gardens in full, analyzing the different flowers with care while she listens to the trickling water with a pleased contentment. She murmurs her agreement with Caladhiel's equal appreciation of the flora and fauna about them before the elf mentions the ceremony and reminds Majet of why she is here.

Removing herself from her curiosity, she nods her head and looks for a good spot. There is just a bit of space next to the pond on one side--that will do. She pulls the staff down before her and moves to the vacant, grassy area and smiles a little more as she gestures for the elf to follow her with a quiet excitement.

She says, "This will do."

Holding out the wooden staff, she inhales deeply as the staff suddenly becomes two staves, each half in length as it "breaks" in the perfect center. Then, two staves become four, but this time, the break is vertical, rather than horizontal, and the staves become thinner.

Then, Majet points to the ground with her toe pointed into the grass and asks Caladhiel to sit there politely as she takes each stick and stabs it aggressively into the ground. Normally, she'd be worried to upset the humans for putting holes into the ground, but she knows that the holes won't be there after the ceremony, so there's no reason to worry.

The sticks form a perfect square around their modest, grassy space near the pond's edge and they poke above the ground about a little over two feet in height for each one. Majet sits in front of Caladhiel inside the invisible square, cross legged. She takes off her shoes and lets the elf know that this part is optional, so it is up to her.

From a pouch at her belt, she removes four rocks, two black and two white. The last time that Majet did this ceremony, Majet had used the white and Syren had used the black--so Majet is curious to know which she would use this time. She's sure that Caladhiel will receive the white.

Taking the two whites in her open, right palm and the two blacks in her open, left palm, she holds her hands out with her palms facing the sky to cradle the rocks so that they may greet the night air. The stones almost seem to glow and she looks at Caladhiel and says:

"Place your hands flat out and on top of mine to cover these rocks," Majet instructs in a hushed tone, "Hold them there until you feel heat from one of them. Whichever one you feel the heat from--that color is yours."

And so, they hold the rocks together quietly, just sitting there in silence waiting. This continues for a long twenty seconds until, finally, the Majet feels the heat in her right palm and her eyes widen with surprise. Caladhiel receives the black...? Interesting...

Knowing that the summoner will feel heat in her right palm, as well, the black accepts her and Majet pulls the white rocks to herself while allowing Caladhiel to accept the black ones for herself. Then, Majet places one rock in each palm and waits for Caladhiel to do the same. Now they have their colors; it is time to move on to the ceremony.

"We will start with our eyes closed and when you feel the time is right, you may open them, should you choose." Majet says, "All from here you may do what you wish--it's whatever...feels right. What feels right for me will probably not be the same as it is for you--because of our different races, not just our different natures."

Her last few words sound quite uncertain, demonstrating that she has never before done this with an elf. She also looks a bit shy; to show such uncertainty is unlike her. Still, she clears her throat and readies to begin as she wonders what lies in store. Due to Caladhiel's influence, she knows that this ceremony will be different for her, too.

Thinking back, this was so different when she had done this with Syren instead of her mother. The variations were so unpredictable and so strange that Majet was in awe at how the ceremony could change and yet still seem like so much of the same. Nature could be so flighty, sometimes.

Majet whispers, "This...this ceremony is about thanking mother nature. It's about connecting with the earth beneath it in all forms--water, earth, air, plant, fire...all of it. It's about becoming one with her and accepting her as she accepts us. Do you have any questions?"

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Click here to get started on GtR!Many thanks to Skylar for making my sig/avy set!

Caladhiel is paying more attention to the flowers than to Majet. She has never seen these flowers before. She also cannot believe how warm it is at night. It isn’t until Majet starts speaking that she is brought back to her senses.

She watches as Majet takes her staff and splits it perfectly in half not only horizontally, but vertically as well. It was amazing to watch. Majet instructs her to sit in a middle. Caladhiel does as she is told. She has been to plenty of ceremonies done by the priest to know that you listen to the leader. In this case it is Majet. Besides she is curious about her ceremony.Her head rushes as Majet stabs the last stick in the ground. It isn’t enough to give her a head ache, but it felt kinda good. Majet removes her shoes, and she follows wanting the experience to be as authentic as possible. She watches as Majet takes stones out of a pouch. A pair of black and a white. She places them in her hands and instructs Caladhiel to put her hand on the top.

She feels warmth coming from her left hand. She looks down at it. It is not burning, but it is definitely warmer than her right. She takes the black stones watching as Majet places one in each hand. She follows suit. When she does though she feels lighter. Not light headed, but like her whole body is lighter. It is an odd sensation that she cannot explain.

She is brought back when Majet explains more about the ceremony. She closes her eyes and begins to breathe deeper. She wonders what she will feel with this ceremony. Connecting to the planet...the air that goes into our lungs that provides life. The water that provides them with moisture and gives the plants their nutrients. The plants that provide them with so much as well. And the fire that gives them warmth.”

The summoner's response to Majet's inquiry is silence and closed eyes, so Majet decides to assume that there will be none. With a focused expression, she looks about her, not yet ready to close her eyes. She looks about making sure that no one is near, first. When she is satisfied there are no interruptions, she closes her eyes, as well.

With her eyes closed, she focuses on her breathing and then on the rocks in her hands as they grow a little warmer. Reaching out with her wood magic, she feels the wooden, thin poles around them that used to be her staff and reaches out for them with her mind.

Soon, the wooden pieces begin to separate into more, small pieces as they vibrate against each other. The vibration is so quick and short that it is a quiet clacking in the night, much more peaceful, instead of loud. The vibration continues for several minutes.

Finally, other things around them begin to fall into sync with each other. Crickets sound in time with the wood vibrations, bugs of all kinds clear the air about them as the entire atmosphere seems to cool and become weightless. A deep hum is added to the vibrations after a few minutes more, the earth's rocks beneath the surface vibrating beneath them, as well.

She can feel the vibrations underneath her and the pond's water begins to ripple and dance at its surface as the grass and flowers all begin to shake. Energy flows up and around them, suddenly, as if a great wind has just rushed upwards from the ground. It threatens to lift them up into the air, but doesn't.

Majet's eyes slowly open as she feels the strong energy bursts vibrating against her body from all directions, meeting the hum and the buzzing at every inch of her skin with excitement. Her aura, now appearing like that of a deep, hazel galaxy, glows brightly about her body, making her shine. Her eyes, if she could see them, are a brilliant green as her magic's brilliance illuminates the garden.

The hum and vibrations become so loud, so intense against the skin and ears, that it is as if they are lying inside of a bell as it rings over and over and all focus towards the real world are now lost. Or is this the real world? Is this what it feels like to be normal and people are always just lost in their daily distractions? What Majet would give to live like this, in this moment, forever.

Majet tries to stifle a giggle, but she fails as it slips out. The giggle turns into a laugh. Letting the rocks fall onto the ground, lays back onto the ground and looks into the stars, feeling the vibrating earth beneath her and feeling the high of being completely relaxed as every muscle in her body releases the tension into the air that massages her into bliss.

Her eyes watch as the wooden discs--that's what they are now--circle about them in the air, moving in varying motions and vibrating against each other as the tree--the tree at the edge of the garden that isn't too far away, grows at an incredible rate. She watches it, unsurprised. That part isn't new. Most of this isn't new.

Caladhiel and her reaction to the Joining is all that is new. And it is wonderful. Everything is wonderful. Life is wonderful. The hum is just note after note of low tones to rumble the Earth's melody into her body and all she can really look at clearly in this moment are the stars. And they are stunning.

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Click here to get started on GtR!Many thanks to Skylar for making my sig/avy set!

Caladhiel opens her mind as the ceremony continues. She hears the steady clacking of the wood. Then the rest of the nightly noises begin to match the clacking of the wood. The cricket’s chirp, the water fall, even her heart beat and breathing seem to match the beat. Her whole body feels lighter. She has never felt like this before.

She wishes she had her pan flute with her to play with the heartbeat of the earth, instead she begins to sing. It is a song of praise to Mother Earth in her Elven language. Her voice is the most beautiful she has ever heard it before. Soon she feels her body move in time to the beat as well. Her body is surrounded in a calming blue aura. She is a very graceful dancer being taught since a very young age. However this is not a dance she has ever done before. It is one that come purely from her soul. The song she sings is the same.

She opens her eyes after when the song is over and sees Majet lying on the ground. She lies next to her. “That was amazing. I have never felt anything like that before. I cannot describe the sensation I am feeling. I have never felt so free.” She blushes as she realizes that she is interrupting Majet’s peace. She continues to lie next to Majet soaking in the sensation from the ceremony. Elves are known to be on the reserved side. Always ones for rules and traditions. She looks over at Majet and does something she has never done. She hugs Majet whispering ‘thank you’ to her.

As Caladhiel lays next to her, speaking of how amazing everything feels, Majet thinks to herself, It's even better with sex. Realizing she almost said it, she giggles aloud, glad that she didn't. That would have been embarrassing. Really very embarrassing. When the elf hugs her, she's surprised, but hugs her back.

Had she done that on a normal day, Majet would surely have been confused and uncertain on how to respond. She knew what a hug was--she'd seen humans and trolls and gnomes alike all do this frequently. It was something people did, but not Spriggans. They didn't hug and the only time physical intimacy was a thing (other than intercourse) was during the ceremony.

"You're welcome," Majet says, feeling as though the starry sky above her is still spinning, "It'll wear off in the next hour. The closeness with nature, with the world. You'll miss it, after, and it'll feel heavy. I usually cry."

Admitting this last was easy while the good feeling in her heart warmed her and made it easy to express things. Still, she doubts she'll regret saying that later. The elf needs to know what to expect.

"The sudden sense of disconnection is...jarring." Majet says softly, taking Caladhiel's hand in her own as she looks over at her, "It's painful and lonely. And it can make you feel so small. But that's the point of all of us. To show us what we could be a part of and then to show us just how...self-indulgent we are. It's what keeps us in check and reminds us that there is more to life than ourselves. If that makes sense."

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Click here to get started on GtR!Many thanks to Skylar for making my sig/avy set!